Shakyamuni Buddha depicting Bhumisparsha mudra is the centerpiece of this Shakyamuni thangka painting. Additionally, floating above him are 2 more Shakyamuni Buddha depictions displaying the Abhaya and also Dharmachakra mudra. These three mudras are integral to the Buddhist teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha.
The Bhumisparsha mudra is also known as the “earth touching” mudra. Shakyamuni Buddha used this mudra to call the earth goddess to witness his vanquishment of the demon Mara (defilements). As a result, after 6 years of complete dedication he had developed the “middle path” to enlightenment. After he had become a perfected being, he taught the Dharma to all sentient life. Our Shakyamuni thangka painting portrays the Buddha of our era and the founder of Buddhism.
The most important aspect of the Dharma path is the practice of meditation. The left hand of Shakyamuni Buddha is using the Dhyana “meditation” mudra. Additionally, other symbolic features of our Shakyamuni thangka painting include right turning hair coils, third eye of wisdom, ushnisha topknot and the meditation bowl in the palm of the left hand. The meditation bowl is the most important of these symbols because it holds the three nectars needed to annihilate the three poisons of delusion, hatred and ill will. Click here to learn more about Shakyamuni Buddha.
